Introduction
Single cell protein (SCP) is a high-quality protein source derived from various microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and algae. SCP is a sustainable and cost-effective protein source that has gained significant attention in the food and feed industries due to its potential to reduce the environmental impact of protein production and address the challenges of food security. The global single cell protein market is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period from 2021 to 2028. This report analyzes the market trends, opportunities, and challenges in the global single cell protein market.
Market Overview
The global single cell protein market was valued at USD 3.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 9.8 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 13.6% during the forecast period. The market growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for sustainable protein sources, rising population, and growing demand for animal feed.
Trends
- Increasing demand for plant-based protein sources: The rising demand for plant-based protein sources is driving the demand for SCP in the food industry. SCP is a sustainable and high-quality protein source that can be used as an alternative to traditional protein sources such as soy and whey.
- Sustainable production process: The sustainable production process of SCP is attracting investors and manufacturers. The use of renewable resources and waste products in SCP production reduces the environmental impact of protein production.
- Increasing investments in SCP research and development: The increasing investments in SCP research and development are driving the growth of the market. Various companies and research organizations are investing in SCP production technology and developing new SCP products.
- Increasing awareness: The increasing awareness about the benefits of SCP is driving the demand for SCP in the food and feed industries. SCP is a high-quality protein source that is rich in essential amino acids and can be used in various applications.
Opportunities
- Rising demand for animal feed: The increasing demand for high-quality protein sources in animal feed is driving the growth of the SCP market. SCP is used as an alternative protein source in animal feed as it is cost-effective and sustainable.
- Growing population: The growing population is driving the demand for sustainable protein sources. SCP is a potential solution to the challenges of food security as it can be produced using renewable resources and waste products.
- Diversification of SCP products: The diversification of SCP products can create new opportunities in the market. SCP can be used in various applications such as food, feed, and industrial applications.
Challenges
- Regulatory challenges: The regulatory challenges in the SCP market can hinder the growth of the market. SCP is a novel food ingredient that requires regulatory approval before it can be used in food and feed applications.
- Production challenges: The production challenges in SCP production can affect the supply of SCP products. The production of SCP requires specialized equipment and expertise, which can limit the production capacity.
- Consumer acceptance: The consumer acceptance of SCP products can affect the demand for SCP. SCP is a novel ingredient that may require consumer education and acceptance before it can be widely adopted.
Conclusion
The global single cell protein market is expected to experience significant growth during the forecast period from 2021 to 2028 due to the increasing demand for sustainable protein sources, rising population, and growing demand for animal feed. The market trends, opportunities, and challenges indicate that the SCP market has significant potential for growth and innovation. The rising demand for plant-based protein sources, sustainable production processes, increasing investments in SCP research and development, and increasing awareness about the benefits of SCP are driving the growth of the market. However, regulatory challenges, production challenges, and consumer acceptance can hinder the growth of the market.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Everest Market Insights journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.